SteamOS Wi-Fi failure decision tree

Scope

This flow separates adapter detection, radio state, access-point visibility, association, addressing, routing, DNS, and Internet reachability. It does not begin by changing kernel modules or deleting profiles.

Start safe

Record SteamOS build, update channel, device model, dock, VPN/proxy, access-point model/band/security, and whether another network works. Restart the access point only if you control it and can avoid disrupting others.

Decision tree

  1. No Wi-Fi device: disconnect docks, reboot once, and capture device/kernel state.
  2. Device present but radio off: compare Gaming Mode/Desktop controls and airplane mode before toggling once.
  3. SSID absent: compare distance, band, hidden SSID, regional channel, and a phone hotspot.
  4. Authentication fails: verify time, security mode, credentials, captive portal, and access-point logs.
  5. Connected without address: inspect DHCP and duplicate-address evidence.
  6. Address exists without names: separate default route, numeric-IP reachability, and DNS.
  7. Link drops: record signal, band, roaming, power state, dock/USB interference, and timestamps.

Evidence to capture

Run these read-only commands in Desktop Mode and redact SSIDs, MAC addresses, IPs, and hostnames before sharing:

Stop conditions

Stop changing settings if the adapter disappears from hardware inventory, logs show repeated firmware/kernel faults, multiple devices lose the same access point, or enterprise/captive credentials belong to an administrator. Escalate with the recorded evidence.

Restore baseline

Turn off test hotspots/VPNs, restore the original radio and power state, reconnect the original network, and undo only changes made during this run. Forget and recreate the profile only after its settings and evidence are recorded.

Frequently asked questions

Should I forget the Wi-Fi network first?
Should I forget the Wi-Fi network first?
No. First record radio, adapter, connection, address, route, and DNS state. Forgetting a profile destroys useful evidence and its saved configuration.
Does seeing the access point prove Internet access should work?
Does seeing the access point prove Internet access should work?
No. Scan, association, authentication, DHCP/addressing, routing, DNS, and upstream Internet access are separate stages.

Sources

Version history

  • 2026-07-15: Phase 6 staged Wi-Fi diagnosis and evidence checklist.